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Tuesday, September 30, 1997

House adopts extension of immigration filing provision

By MICHELLE MITTELSTADT Associated Press Writer

WASHINGTON (AP) - With thousands of illegal immigrants poised to lose their eligibility to remain in the United States while applying for legal residence, the House acted Monday to provide a three-week reprieve.

On a 355-57 vote, the House approved a stopgap bill bankrolling government operations beyond the Oct. 1 start of the fiscal year. The bill, which funds government through Oct. 23 while Congress completes its appropriations process, also would extend to that date an immigration provision due to expire at midnight Tuesday. The Senate is due to take up similar legislation Tuesday.

Immigrant communities nationwide have been in a panic in recent weeks over possible loss of the measure that allows undocumented immigrants to file here for legal status instead of at U.S. consulates abroad. In exchange, filers must pay a $1,000 fine.

The legislation isn't of benefit to all of the 5 million-plus illegal immigrants living here. Instead, it is targeted at those eligible for legal residence, either because they're already in line for visas or are the spouse or minor child of a U.S. citizen. Parents of adult U.S. citizen children also can apply.

Some 345,000 people took advantage of the rule in 1995 and 1996. This year, an estimated 214,000 are applying.

Critics contend the government shouldn't reward immigrants here unlawfully at the expense of those who are following the rules. Extension also would foster more illegal immigration, they say.

"This is blatantly unfair to the millions of people around the world who abide by our laws ... and wait their turn," said Rep. Dana Rohrabacher, R-Calif., urging his colleagues to defeat the legislation. "It makes a joke of our immigration system."

Lawmakers will decide next month whether to renew the provision for a longer period. The Senate already has approved a permanent extension.

Immigrant-rights groups argue that the provision, which is supported by business and religious organizations, benefits only those who already are on track for legal residence.

"It is a critical issue," said Abby Price of the U.S. Catholic Conference's Migration and Refugee Services. "There is a lot of panic out in the community."

Contemplating expiration of the measure, tens of thousands of immigrants have been confronted with a difficult choice - remain here illegally or leave to secure their green cards abroad. With the application process sometimes taking years, the immigrants would face a lengthy period away from family and jobs if they leave the United States.

While the Clinton administration supports extension of the provision, the Immigration and Naturalization Service is cautioning that the Tuesday deadline remains in effect until Congress passes the extension and the president signs the legislation.

Some INS offices will offer extended hours Tuesday to deal with last-minute filers. Offices also have set up drop boxes to allow applicants to file their paperwork until midnight Tuesday.

INS offices in Los Angeles, Chicago, Dallas and other cities have reported big crowds in recent days, said agency spokesman Eric Andrus.Send a Letter to the Editor about This Story | Start or Join A Discussion about This Story
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